Exploring Lake Superior's North Shore
Want to escape the summer heat? Looking for an off-the-beaten-track vacation experience? Look no further than the "North Shore". Comprising portions of Minnesota and Ontario, Canada, this remote spot is often explored as part of the Lake Superior Circle Tour. You won't find any mega resorts or chain hotels here. Instead, boutique resorts and short-term rentals are your best options.
Aside from bigger towns like Thunder Bay, you won't find any restaurants or stores that you have heard of either. The North Shore is a refreshing escape from the "sameness" that you often feel when traveling across the country. Here are a few examples from our recent trip to this perfect summer getaway.
Betty's Pies
A short distance from Duluth we stopped at Betty's Pies, just outside of Two Harbors, Minnesota. Just across the street from Lake Superior, the dining room has clear views of sparkling waters and rugged coastline. Betty's features a full menu, but the pies are the real draw. Order a slice or a whole pie. Eat inside on a cool day or outside under a shaded picnic table. I promise you will be glad you stopped!
Grand Marais, Minnesota
I captured this view while kayaking in the calm waters of the Grand Marais' protected harbor. Grand Marais feels like a little New England fishing village. There are numerous shops (including a wonderful Ben Franklin), restaurants, and ice cream eateries to capture your attention while exploring this quaint town. If nature is your passion, take a short hike around the bay to Artist's Point. Just minutes from downtown are many opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Split Rock Lighthouse
If you are a lighthouse lover, the North Shore is for you. Split Rock Lighthouse is the most photographed place in Minnesota. It was built after a 1905 storm sank or damaged 29 ships on Lake Superior and for almost 60 years it helped to protect lives and cargo on the lake. Today you can tour the lighthouse, grounds, and keeper's home as well as get a magnificent view along the way.
Waterfalls
A highlight of the North Shore is the waterfalls that are seemingly everywhere you look. Pictured here are Gooseberry Falls, outside of Two Harbors, Minnesota and the Pigeon River Falls. (The Pigeon River forms part of the boundary between the USA and Canada.) Many falls are easily accessible via short hikes and made accessible as part of State Parks or Provincial Parks.
Fort William
You don't have to be a history lover to love Fort William. Located along the Kaministiquia River, in Thunder Bay, Fort William was the major rendezvous point in eastern Canada for the fur trade. Faithfully rebuilt, you will be amazed at the size of the site and the care taken to tell the story of the European and Native peoples that came here. First-person storytellers will take you back to the 18th century as they guide you through the grounds.
Let us help!
If you need an escape or a new adventure, let us know. Castaway Destinations specializes in finding unique places and experiences to fit your interests. We can customize any trip just for you!
